A large, relatively peaceful but highly gregarious South American cichlid. Often kept with Discus due to their shared need for very warm, pristine, acidic water. They are notorious herbivores that will devour almost any aquatic plant, and they actually require grazing on driftwood for proper digestion. They must be kept in groups.
At a Glance
Tank Requirements
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Water Parameters
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Temperament & Compatibility
Available Varieties
Each variety inherits the species defaults above. Only differences are highlighted.
Standard (Adult)
The adult form, distinguished by a silver/yellowish-brown body with a prominent, large dark wedge or teardrop shape on the flank. Very deep-bodied.
Differs in 1 trait from base species
Also known as: Adult Uaru, Triangle Cichlid
Juvenile (Grow-out)
Juveniles look completely different from adults, featuring dark mottling and spots designed to camouflage them in leaf litter. They grow rapidly and will quickly require a massive tank upgrade to accommodate their adult size and social group.
Differs in 5 traits from base species
Also known as: Baby Uaru, Spotted Uaru
Top Tank Mates
African Butterfly Fish
Pantodon buchholzi
🟢Ideal Tank MatesStriped Raphael Catfish
Platydoras armatulus
🟢Ideal Tank MatesSeverum
Heros severus
🟢Ideal Tank MatesDiscus
Symphysodon aequifasciatus
🟢Ideal Tank MatesAgassiz's Dwarf Cichlid
Apistogramma agassizii
🟢Ideal Tank MatesAmazon Leaf Fish
Monocirrhus polyacanthus
🟢Ideal Tank MatesUaru Care Guide Summary
The Uaru, scientifically known as Uaru amphiacanthoides, belongs to the Cichlids - South American family group. Adults reach a maximum size of approximately 25 cm and have a compressed body shape with a moderate growth rate. Classified as mostly peaceful, this species primarily occupies the mid-level and bottom zones of the aquarium and produces a high level of biological waste.
To thrive, the Uaru requires a freshwater only aquarium with a minimum volume of 400 litres and a tank length of at least 150 cm. Water temperature should be maintained between 27°C and 30°C, with a pH range of 5–7 and a general hardness of 1–8 dGH. A low water flow is preferred. An aquarium test kit can help you monitor these values.
The Uaru is a rewarding species to keep, provided its core environmental needs are met. This species is available in 2 varieties: Standard (Adult) and Juvenile (Grow-out). Each may differ slightly in size, temperament, or care needs, so it is worth checking the specific requirements of the variety you plan to keep.
Uaru Habitat Setup
When setting up an aquarium for the Uaru, a low water flow best suits their natural preferences. Because this species occupies the mid-level and bottom zones, the aquarium layout should prioritise open swimming space in the centre of the tank for free movement and sufficient floor space with hiding spots among rocks, wood, or dense planting. Useful additions include a sand substrate to accommodate their sifting behaviour and driftwood, which can serve as both a hiding place and a dietary supplement. Keepers should note that live planted layouts may be difficult to maintain, as this species tends to uproot or consume vegetation. Browse aquarium sand substrate options to find the best fit.
Uaru Compatibility Notes
Classified as mostly peaceful, the Uaru is a social species that requires the company of its own kind to thrive. When choosing tankmates, ornamental shrimp are not safe companions and boisterous or fast-moving tankmates may cause this species undue stress. Selecting tankmates that favour different water layers from the mid-level and bottom zones can help reduce competition and territorial overlap.
Frequently Asked Questions About Uaru
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Similar Species
Severum
Heros severus
Severums are large, deep-bodied South American cichlids often called the 'Poor Man's Discus'. They are relatively peaceful for their size compared to other large cichlids, but they are notorious plant destroyers with a highly herbivorous diet. They require spacious aquariums with excellent filtration.
Discus
Symphysodon aequifasciatus
Known as the 'King of the Aquarium', Discus are stunning, heavily laterally-compressed cichlids. They are famous for their demanding husbandry, requiring high temperatures (28-32°C / 82-90°F), pristine water quality, and specialized diets. They are schooling fish that establish a strict pecking order and must be kept in groups to prevent intense bullying of a single weaker fish.
Freshwater Angelfish
Pterophyllum scalare
The most iconic South American Cichlid, known for its distinct arrowhead shape and majestic fins. While domestic strains are hardy, they remain cichlids: they are semi-aggressive predators that will eat any fish small enough to fit in their mouths (like Neon Tetras). They form loose shoals as juveniles but pair off and become territorial as they mature. Height is more important than length for this species.
African Butterfly Cichlid
Anomalochromis thomasi
A peaceful, colorful dwarf cichlid from West Africa. Unlike many cichlids, it is plant-safe and generally suitable for community tanks. It is famous in the hobby as an efficient biological control for pest snails.
Oscar
Astronotus ocellatus
A highly intelligent, large, and personable South American cichlid often described as a 'water dog'. They are notoriously messy eaters, heavy waste producers, and will enthusiastically rearrange tank decor and uproot plants. Any fish small enough to fit in their mouth will be eaten. They require excellent filtration and strict water maintenance.
Red Devil Cichlid
Amphilophus labiatus
A massive, extremely aggressive Central American cichlid. Aptly named, the Red Devil is highly intelligent, interactive, and famous for 'glass-banging' at their owners. They are powerful diggers that will uproot plants and rearrange decor. Because of their sheer aggression and jaw strength, they are almost exclusively kept as 'wet pets' in solitary setups.